With the help of VinFast, let’s crunch the numbers.

VinFast has set the VF 3 at an introductory price of P 605,000 (with battery subscription) or P 705,000 (with battery purchase) for early customers. After September 30, the prices will revert to P 645,000 and P 745,000, respectively. However, the real game-changer here isn’t the purchase price, rather the operating costs of owning a VF 3.

First up, let’s look at the fuel consumption. VinFast gathered three A-segment cars—all powered by a conventional internal combustion engine (price range: P 660,000 to P 840,000) and got an average of 17.23 km/L. They also gathered three gas-powered motorbikes (price range: P 81,000 to P 166,900) and averaged their fuel mileage to 47.16 km/L.

Meanwhile, they calculated the VF 3’s energy consumption at 7.16 km/kWh.

For this comparison, VinFast considered the VF 3’s battery subscription plan which reduces the initial price by P 100,000 but adds a monthly fee based on travel distance:

• Under 1,500 kilometers: P 2,800
• 1,500 to 2,500 kilometers: P 3,800
• Over 2,500 kilometers: P 6,300

Finally, they factoring in the average cost of electricity (P 11.34/kWh) and gasoline price (P 64.34/L).

Using these figures, they figured the operating cost of the VF 3 (with battery subscription and energy consumption) versus the fuel cost of an average combustion engine motorcycle or car using the following formula:

• Monthly Distance x Energy Cost Per Kilometer x Fuel/Electricity Price

The result? The VF 3’s battery purchase version costs about half as much to run as the average A-segment car, particularly as distance increases. Even with the battery subscription plan, the VF 3 still offers a lower operating cost compared to gasoline cars, though it is significantly higher than a motorbike due to the added subscription fee (although the subscription model already helps lower the initial purchase price by P 100,000, potentially amounting to years of subscription fee).

For VinFast, the VF 3’s positioning as a value-oriented choice is clear. With a slightly higher operating cost than a motorcycle, you gain the comfort of a mini-SUV, complete with air conditioning and shelter from the elements, all while enjoying the fuel savings of an electric vehicle.

For those considering an entry-level car, the VF 3 is a cost-efficient solution for the daily commute. Perfect for city driving, the VF 3’s compact size makes it easy to navigate urban areas, while still providing the safety typically found in larger cars.

It must be added that maintaining an electric vehicle is also significantly simpler compared to a combustion engine car. There’s no engine oil to change and fewer mechanical parts mean a longer maintenance cycle. VinFast, however, did not disclose the PMS schedule or costing for the VF 3.

So, is the VF 3 worth it? Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal needs and preferences. If you’re looking for something more substantial than a motorbike but still want to keep your monthly operating costs low, the VF 3 presents a compelling case as a fully enclosed vehicle with better safety, comfort, and practicality. Just like in Vietnam, the VF 3 offers city-dwellers in the Philippines an affordable entry point into the world of electric vehicles without sacrificing comfort or convenience.